Soft, Medium or Firm Mattress
Whether one needs a soft, medium or firm mattress often depends upon the sleeper and how he/she sleeps. For many years, the general consensus has been that a firm mattress is the best option for all back problems. But recent studies have found that this is not only the case. The truth of the matter is that there is no single mattress density that works for all people with back problems. Any mattress that helps an individual sleep without pain, discomfort and stiffness is the best mattress for that person. There are, however, some general guidelines you should consider when shopping for a mattress to help alleviate your back problem(s).
Firm mattresses are recommended for people who sleep on their stomach, as well as some back sleepers. Obviously, it is widely thought that firm mattresses give your spine more support, especially if the mattress can provide support for the back at all points along the spine’s natural curves. On the other hand, if the mattress is too firm, it can cause aches and pain at pressure points, such as your hips. If a mattress is too hard, it can also cause reduced circulation, requiring your muscles to work harder to keep the spine straight. People who sleep on their side on a firmer mattress will feel may feel discomfort at the pressure points of their hips and shoulders which are pressed against the mattress.
Medium density mattresses are generally recommended for most people who sleep on their back. There hasn’t been a lot of research on what density of mattress is the best for back pain sufferers, but a recent study in Spain came to the conclusion that people sleeping on medium density mattresses tended to show more improvement in their back discomfort than people who slept on firm mattresses. In fact, out of 313 patients, 82 per cent of those who slept on medium mattresses reported improvement, while only 68 percent of those who slept on firm mattresses reported improvement. Researchers concluded that medium mattresses were better because they provided an equal distribution of pressure, i.e. a better contour to the participants’ bodies.
Soft mattresses are usually recommended for people who sleep on one or the other side. However, a soft mattress can often contour too much and not give your body (and back) enough support, again creating tension which can ultimately lead to problems, such as dysfunction and pain. When sleeping on your side, the line of your spine should be straight.
In spite of the research and what so-called experts say, personal preference should ultimately determine what mattress is best for you and your back problems. There is no single style or density of mattress that will work for all people with back pain. What you need to do when selecting a new mattress is to achieve a balance between back support and comfort. Find a mattress that provides support for the natural curves and alignment of your spine. Overall comfort while sleeping on a mattress is equally important. It will ultimately be up to you to determine what is best for you and your back–a soft, medium or firm mattress.